“Inmate Russell did not respond for breakfast this morning," said Dr. Samuel Gore, OPSO medical director. "Deputies attempted to awaken Russell, who was non-responsive, and immediately contacted OPSO Medical Staff. New Orleans EMS responded immediately and worked with the Sheriff’s Office Medical Staff to revive the inmate. Those efforts were unsuccessful. There were no signs of trauma at the scene."

Russell was arrested June 13, 2012, and was indicted on a second-degree murder charge in the death of an elderly Gentilly woman, who was strangled and bludgeoned to death. He was also charged with parole violation.

A preliminary autopsy has ruled out murder as a cause, police said. Russell was housed alone and there were no signs of violence. Authorities said accident, self-injury and medication reaction are being considered, pending final autopsy reports.

Russell had received regular medical exams, which included evaluations for suicidal tendencies. He denied being suicidal and was not on suicide watch. He was last seen in the clinic on Friday where he had no physical complaints and denied suicidal ideation, police said.